The Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) demonstrated its commitment to combating illegal fishing by setting ablaze confiscated items, including five tonnes of immature fish, valued in the millions of shillings. The burning took place at the Mweena FPU detachment base, witnessed by FPU Commander Lt Col Mercy Tukahirwa and conducted by spokesperson Lt Lauben Ndifula.
The incinerated items, comprising beach seines, monofilaments, and illegal hooks, were impounded during FPU operations. Lt Lauben Ndifula emphasized that the destruction serves as a clear message that any illegal gear seized will meet a similar fate. Responding to allegations of selling impounded gear, Ndifula clarified that a court order must be obtained before disposal, a process taking up to three weeks.
Various techniques for transporting immature fish to markets were revealed, including using coffins, concealing them in sand trucks, sacks of charcoal, or even suitcases. FPU continues to educate communities about the hazards of illegal fishing, highlighting its impact on depleting the lake and potentially causing economic distress for local residents.
Fishermen, expressing concerns, urged Lt Col Mercy Tukahirwa to address the reported collusion between FPU officers and politicians who allegedly bail out offenders. They emphasized the need for legal action against the “untouchables” involved in purchasing illegal gear, demanding that they face the consequences of the law.
Nalongo Eva Kwesiga, the Kalangala resident district commissioner, appealed to President Yoweri Museveni for a loan scheme to aid affected fishermen in acquiring legal fishing gear and standard boats. Acknowledging the improved approach of the new regime, she urged silverfish (mukene) fishermen to refrain from catching immature fish, emphasizing the detrimental economic impact on the country when such fish cannot be exported.
